Page 29 - Bethel Annual 2019 Report

Day of Dialogue on Minority Health – In 2007, the Health Ministry outreach committee conducted a Day
of Dialogue on Minority Health (DoDMH). Representatives from hospitals and other health care facilities
were invited to discuss the status of health in minority communities. Private physicians spoke on what
they observed in their respective practices, and ministers gave biblical and spiritual perspectives on health.
The DoDMH was expanded to bring churches and faith-based leaders together to identify health issues,
examine the role of the church in confronting these issues, share best practices, and develop applicable ac-
tion plans to improve health outcomes in minority communities. Presently, this Bethel model program
consists of eight counties in North Florida. Churches throughout the region have been moved to address
community health issues and establish their own health ministries. The annual Day of Dialogue event is
governed by a nine-member board. Four are members of Bethel including the chair of the steering commit-
tee who is also a member of the Board of Directors. Hundreds of individuals benefit from this annual event.
American Cancer Society Relay for Life – Coordinates and provides leadership for Bethel’s involvement
in the American Cancer Society (ACA) Relay for Life Annual Event. Members encourage participation by
providing information on the disease through the distribution of published literature, emails, and personal
appeals during worship services. It recruits walkers, volunteers, luminary dedications, and patrons.
Through its leadership, Bethel has been successful in contributing $5000.00 annually, thereby earning the
ACA’s Gold Level Status in support of its efforts to eliminate cancer through research, education, advocacy
and service. Since 2013, Bethel has contributed over $31,114 dollars to Relay for Life.

Nursing Wellness Program – Ministers to the congregation through weekly blood pressure screenings
and wellness services each Sunday. First Aid Stations and healthy snacks are provided at designated
church events such as Vacation Bible School, the Florida Annual Conference, and the Family and Friends
Picnic. This component of the COH is conducted by Bethel registered nurses.

Food Environment – Offers healthy breakfast alternatives to the congregation. It encourages and sup-
ports healthy menus at events sponsored by the church.

As a result of its exceptional health program, the Bethel COH was one of four churches, nationwide, to
receive the coveted Healthy Churches Best Practice Award from the Balm in Gilead, Inc., presented at
the 2018 Annual Healthy Churches National Convention at Point Clear, Alabama. Churches are selected
for their extraordinary health outreach and service to rural, underserved communities in their area.

Under the leadership of Sister Marva Ford-Jones, the Bethel Commission on Health continues its efforts
to provide education and services to improve the status of health among members of Bethel and the com-
munity.

Reverend Dr. McAllister accepts Healthy Churches Best Practice Award from Balm in Gilead, Inc.

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